Rune-risting

To the untiring zeal, and energy, and tact, and patriotism of Mr. Stephens we are therefore most deeply indebted for his skill in deciphering these old “Rune-Ristings.”

Whatever the staves mean, this is the only such secret rune-risting yet found.

[A]nd the purpose of rune-risting was more often than not to do with soothsaying or sorcery.